Self-Improvement for Kids: What Is It And How To Achieve It

Unit 6 of the *Positive Actio*n SEL program empowers students with eight positive actions for self-improvement. Over the course of 20 engaging lessons, Grade 1 students are taught why and how to believe in their potential, have the courage to try, turn problems into opportunities, be persistent, broaden their horizons, and set and achieve physical, intellectual, and social-emotional goals.

This introductory lesson begins with a simple yet critical step: defining self-improvement. First-grade students recite the term and its definition several times, allowing it to take root in their minds. Continual self-improvement, they learn, is a positive action that makes individuals feel good about themselves.

To illustrate the power of self-improvement for kids, Maurice the Mouse makes a delightful appearance in the classroom. In his engaging story, Maurice and his cousin, Marrott, stumble upon a big sack of corn, a perfect find as they need to store food for winter. However, there's a catch: the sack weighs a whopping hundred pounds, seemingly impossible for the tiny mice to carry at once.

But Maurice, a tiny mouse with grand ideas, hatches a plan. They can go back and forth, carrying as much as they can handle until they successfully transport all the corn inside. At first, Marrott is skeptical, unsure if they can manage the task. However, he eventually summons the courage to try, and together, they overcome the problem.

The story of Maurice and Marrott beautifully illustrates that self-improvement is not always about massive leaps but rather a series of small, determined steps. Maurice's unwavering belief in his abilities and willingness to take on a seemingly insurmountable challenge inspire the students. It reminds them that they, too, can overcome their obstacles and limitations by breaking their goals into manageable, achievable steps.

Following this story, the teacher engages the class with thought-provoking discussion questions. They delve deep into what it truly means to improve oneself and why it holds such significance in their lives. Through these discussions, Grade 1 students are encouraged to think critically and articulate their thoughts, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

As a fun SEL activity, first graders sing along to the lively tune "Improve Myself." The lyrics of this catchy song revolve around the positive actions required for continual self-improvement, reinforcing the lessons they have learned in an enjoyable manner.

The class also explores the Positive Thoughts-Actions-Feelings Circle, a concept central to Positive Action. Students are reminded about how positive thoughts lead to positive actions, which, in turn, generate positive feelings about oneself. This Circle helps the students grasp the emotional benefits of their journey toward becoming their best version.

Finally, the teacher introduces the Positive Behavior Chart, a valuable tool for tracking progress in this unit. This chart serves as positive reinforcement, allowing students to visualize their growth and development. It is a tangible way to celebrate their achievements and motivate them to continue their journey of self-improvement.

With this engaging and thought-provoking lesson, first-grade students are off to a great start on their path to self-improvement. Through the story of Maurice and Marrott, class discussions, music, and visual aids, students learn the importance and power of continually striving to be their best selves. Armed with this foundational understanding, they are ready to take on more positive actions for self-improvement with confidence.